Harvick signs long-term extension with Stewart-Haas Racing

Kevin Harvick shot down rumors of a potential move to Hendrick Motorsports last week and made an even bigger statement on Thursday by signing a long-term contract extension with Stewart-Haas Racing.

"It was a big decision to join Stewart-Haas Racing and it has turned out to be my best decision," Harvick said in a release. "I came to Stewart-Haas Racing to win championships. We have one, but that only made us hungry for more.

"I'm very happy to have my future secure with a team so dedicated to winning."

The length of the extension was not disclosed.

The rumour of a potential move to Hendrick to replace Kasey Kahne certainly carried intrigue when looking at the facts. Harvick is a career Chevrolet driver, Stewart-Haas is switching to Ford in 2017 and Kahne has struggled in recent years with just one win since the start of the 2014 season.

But Harvick, who has nine wins since joining Stewart-Haas prior to the 2014 season, stuck a pin in that balloon and said the conversation was sparked by a "bunch of people who make s-- up".

Now that it's official, Harvick will stick with Stewart-Haas and look to continue the success he's enjoyed in the No. 4 car.

"When you have talented people who consistently deliver results, you hold on to them," team co-owner Gene Haas said. "Kevin Harvick is an exceptional talent and we're very proud to have him a part of Stewart-Haas Racing for years to come."

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